I begin this week by referencing a good resource for Northern Kentucky book lovers and writers: the Kentucky Literary Newsletter. Best of all, the online publication is free and you can sign up for your email copy at here.
According to the Newsletter’s website, the goal of this concise internet publication is to provide insight about poetry, humor, fiction, history, creative writing, literature, essays, journalism, nonfiction, biographies and more. I suggest you will find ample detail about a variety of genres.
With each issue, you will discover current information about author appearances, author readings, writing workshops, and literary awards. There are also helpful hints about the art of writing, and a list of publications of interest to Kentucky’s readers and writers. There’s also information about some of Kentucky’s great bookstores.
The newsletter also provides links to Kentucky literary magazines, on-going writer retreats, a variety of literary services for budding writers, details about writing contests, insight on book discussion and reading groups, and a fluid list of books about Kentucky or by Kentucky authors. Reiterating, the semi-monthly newsletter is filled with news and views and helpful information to writers and readers alike.
As a literary reviewer, I find that the newsletter is an invaluable resource. As a reader and resident of Kentucky, it might be an easy and appealing way to learn more about local authors and literary events. Also, if you are a writer, you should submit details of your creative work to the newsletter.
I’m a subscriber and I recommend you become one, too. Remember, it’s free.
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Now, on to a charming book, one filled with touching stories and honest passion. The title is Me, Myself & Eyes: Life Stories of an Eyeball Mechanic, authored by the founder of the Kentucky Eye Institute, William J. Collis, a native of Winchester.
This book is not what you might think it to be at first blush: a technical, scientific offering about the inner workings of the human eye and the many professional services the doctor rendered or accolades he received. Rather, it’s a compilation of stories that explore his family, friends, former patients, and approach to life.
It provides many lessons about persistence and endurance. He discusses his love for basketball and bridge, reviews his many practical jokes, and provides insight that will make you laugh or cry, or just plain feel good about life. He has an eclectic and definitive cadre of friends and you will meet many of them.
If you are like I am, I imagine you have heard the old adage that we all have a story to tell, a book to write. Collis’s effort is at the top of the heap. He did have a story to tell, and he did a fine job telling it.
As you read this book you’ll get a glimpse of a kind and thoughtful man, who enjoys humor and the art of giving back. You read that correctly, I used the word art. I think giving is an ‘art form,’ and you will find a great amount of charity and wholesomeness in the stories Collis offers.
For sure he is a world-class doctor and eye surgeon. More so, he is a decent, caring man and his stories, a series of vignettes really, reveal that splendid aspect.
I enjoyed this book. I hope you will, too. It is available at www.cincybooks.com.
Donald Then, a novelist and experienced editor and journalist, is NKyTribune’s literary editor. He will review books written by local authors or those with a Northern Kentucky setting. Reach him at author@djamesthen.com Visit his website at www.djamesthen.com.